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Functions of an Entrepreneur:, The important functions performed by an, entrepreneur are listed below:, 1. Innovation:, An entrepreneur is basically an innovator who tries to develop, new technology, products, markets, etc. Innovation may involve, doing new things or doing existing things differently. An, entrepreneur uses his creative faculties to do new things and, exploit opportunities in the market. He does not believe in, status quo and is always in search of change., 2. Assumption of Risk:, An entrepreneur, by definition, is risk taker and not risk, shirker. He is always prepared for assuming losses that may, arise on account of new ideas and projects undertaken by him., This willingness to take risks allows an entrepreneur to take, initiatives in doing new things and marching ahead in his, efforts., 3. Research:, An entrepreneur is a practical dreamer and does a lot of, ground-work before taking a leap in his ventures. In other, words, an entrepreneur finalizes an idea only after considering, a variety of options, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, by applying analytical techniques, testing their applicability,, supplementing them with empirical findings, and then, choosing the best alternative. It is then that he applies his ideas, in practice. The selection of an idea, thus, involves the, application of research methodology by an entrepreneur.

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4. Development of Management Skills:, The work of an entrepreneur involves the use of managerial, skills which he develops while planning, organizing, staffing,, directing, controlling and coordinating the activities of, business. His managerial skills get further strengthened when, he engages himself in establishing equilibrium between his, organization and its environment., However, when the size of business grows considerably, an, entrepreneur can employ professional managers for the, effective management of business operations., 5. Overcoming Resistance to Change:, New innovations are generally opposed by people because it, makes them change their existing behavior patterns. An, entrepreneur always first tries new ideas at his level., It is only after the successful implementation of these ideas that, an entrepreneur makes these ideas available to others for their, benefit. In this manner, an entrepreneur paves the way for the, acceptance of his ideas by others. This is a reflection of his will, power, enthusiasm and energy which helps him in overcoming, the society’s resistance to change., 6. Catalyst of Economic Development:, An entrepreneur plays an important role in accelerating the, pace of economic development of a country by discovering new, uses of available resources and maximizing their utilization.

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To better appreciate the concept of an entrepreneur, it is, desirable to distinguish him from an entrepreneur and, promoter. Table 4.1 outlines the distinction between an, entrepreneur and entrepreneurs, and Table 4.2 portrays basic, points of distinction between an entrepreneur and promoter.